A convicted drug supplier has been awarded $100,000 in an out-of-court settlement after commencing civil proceedings against the South Australian government on the basis that his diabetes worsened while in prison.

Original court documents show that Bruno Tassone claimed more than $2 million dollars in damages due to the state’s alleged failure to provide adequate treatment for his condition.

State Correctional Services Minister Peter Malinauskas described the payout as “appalling”, but added that Tassone is unable to use the money while in prison, and that “victims of his crimes” will be able to make claims on the money immediately.

History of drug convictions

Mr Tassone has been convicted of several serious drug offences, dating as far back as 1992.

He is currently serving six years in prison for supplying a commercial quantity of methamphetamines and the drug ‘fantasy’, which were discovered during a raid on his home.

His payout will be held in the Prisoner Compensation Quarantine Fund for 12 months. Under South Australian law, victims of Tassone’s offences will be able to make claims on the money while he is behind bars.

Mr Tassone claims he was denied special dietary needs and physical exercise appropriate for his condition while in prison.

He further claims his diabetes was not adequately monitored, and that authorities failed to act when they knew his condition was deteriorating.

Before awarding the payout, the Crown Solicitor’s Office rejected many of Tassone’s claims, arguing that the inmate’s behaviour contributed to the decline in his health.

Prisoners who sue the system

Mr Tassone is certainly not the first inmate to cause a stir by commencing proceedings against the state.

Last year, convicted murderer and Brothers 4 Life founder Bassam Hamzy filed proceedings in the NSW Supreme Court against Corrective Services Commissioner Peter Severin from his cell at Goulburn’s ‘Supermax’ prison, claiming he is being denied religious freedom which is guaranteed under section 116 of the Australian Constitution.

Mr Hamzy claims he is entitled to compensation for being prohibited from speaking in Arabic, carrying a Koran, buying halal meals, reciting the call to prayer and praying with other Muslims within the facility.